More Than a Hero
W. Christopher Waddell, First Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric
Bishop W. Christopher Waddell testifies that Jesus Christ is our ultimate hero and should be our primary focus in life.
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Topics
Recognizing the Sacrifices of Pioneers
Bishop Waddell starts the talk with the historical account of the Latter-day Saint pioneers who faced extreme hardships during their journey to the Salt Lake Valley. He highlights the heroic actions of the rescuers, particularly Ephraim Hanks.
These rescuers were heroes to the pioneers, putting their own lives at risk in extreme weather conditions to bring as many as possible safely home.
Ephraim Hanks will forever be a hero to those handcart pioneers.Key Points:
- The pioneers showed immense faith and resilience during their journey.
- Rescuers like Ephraim Hanks demonstrated heroic actions by risking their lives to save others.
- Can you think of a time when someone made a significant sacrifice for you or others?
- How can the story of the pioneers inspire you in your current circumstances?
- What lessons can we learn from the selflessness of the rescuers like Ephraim Hanks?
The Dangers of Misplaced Hero Worship
Bishop Waddell warns against the dangers of excessive admiration for worldly figures, which can distract us from our focus on Jesus Christ. He compares this to the children of Israel worshipping a golden calf.
Although we admire and respect many talented and remarkable men and women for their abilities and contributions, the degree to which they are revered, if taken to an excess, can be the equivalent of the children of Israel worshipping a golden calf in the desert of Sinai.
As adults, what was once innocent childhood fun can become a stumbling block when “hero worship” of politicians, bloggers, influencers, athletes, or musicians causes us to look “beyond the mark” and lose sight of what is truly essential.Key Points:
- Excessive admiration for worldly figures can distract us from our focus on Jesus Christ.
- We must be cautious not to let "hero worship" become a stumbling block in our spiritual journey.
- Can you think of a time when your admiration for a worldly figure distracted you from your spiritual goals?
- How can we maintain a healthy balance between admiring worldly figures and keeping our focus on Christ?
- How can we ensure that our heroes align with our spiritual values?
Jesus Christ as Our Ultimate Hero
Bishop Waddell emphasizes that Jesus Christ is our ultimate hero, who has performed the most crucial role in implementing Heavenly Father's plan. He encourages us to choose Jesus Christ and to make Him the primary object of our attention and focus.
The hero—our hero, now and always—is Jesus Christ, and anything or anyone that distracts us from His teachings, as found in the scriptures and through the words of living prophets, can negatively impact our progress on the covenant path.
President Dallin H. Oaks has taught, "[Jesus Christ] has done everything that is essential for our journey through mortality toward the destiny outlined in the plan of our Heavenly Father."
In a world of heroes, with monuments and museums devoted to the exploits of mortal men and women, there is One who stands above all others. I testify that Jesus Christ is not only our hero; He is our Lord and King, the Savior and Redeemer of mankind.Key Points:
- Jesus Christ is our ultimate hero who has performed the most crucial role in implementing Heavenly Father's plan.
- We need to choose Jesus Christ and make Him the primary object of our attention and focus.
- How has Jesus Christ been a hero in your life?
- What can you do to make Jesus Christ the primary focus of your life?
- Can you share a personal experience where you felt the Savior's love and influence?
